Waking up with the morning sun’s glow drenching a horizon, filled with chirping birds and wandering farm animals was bliss not lost on us city folk. We started out at the peaceful, oil painting-like scenery while staying at the “Seaview Cottage” in Karaka. During the balmy evenings, we treated ourselves to a soak in the outdoor bath and drinks around the fire pit. Only 45-minutes from home, we felt a world away, immersing ourselves around the farmland life.

Down the road from the cottage is the CCT Lavender farm. Stroll down the rows of lavender, picking at your leisure to make your own lavender oil. Kariotahi Beach features Castaway Resort Restaurant right on top of the cliffs, overlooking the water. With a belly full of food, drive along the Kariotahi hard sand beach to your own private spot. Hunua Ranges are a 45-minute drive from the cottage with many trails, we opted for the short hike around the falls, taking in the sites and sounds of the falls and surrounding native bush.

The cottage comes equipped with everything, from cooking spices to towels and tennis rackets. The swimming pool and tennis court are shared facilities with the main house, and we really enjoyed having a quick dip in between our adventures. Highly recommended for R&R.